Hosting a dinner party is both exciting and nerve-wracking. While it does take a little bit of planning, the perfect mix of good food, great company, and a beautiful setting will always make it a night to remember. And, the foundation of any great dinner party, is your dining setup. Having the right table and dining chairs can set the tone for a warm and welcoming evening.
The Dining Essentials
A strong, sturdy dining table is a must for hosting—it provides stability for heavy dishes, platters, and lively conversations. And our Campana Dining Table is a perfect example, serving as a stunning and elegant centrepiece for any gathering.
For those who value space-saving design without compromising on functionality, an extendable table like the Scandi-inspired Ollie Extension Dining Table is ideal. It effortlessly expands to accommodate a growing guest list in just one quick manoeuvre, making room for everyone. Just be sure to test the mechanism beforehand—you don’t want to be fumbling with it mid-entrée!
When it comes to setting the table, think less is more. Start with a runner, add plates and napkins to match your vibe, and skip candles in summer to avoid extra heat. It’s best to keep your tablescape simple and polished - your guests should have space for their wine glasses without having to move half the decor.
Of course, chairs are just as important. Look for dining chairs with enough cushioning for comfort - you want your guests lingering after dessert, not leaving with a sore back. Our Ollie Dining Chairs are a great option—super comfy, with a solid oak frame and resilient upholstery.
Tip: Leave about 20cm between each chair when you space them out. No one wants to feel like they’re elbow wrestling with their neighbour.
A sideboard or buffet is a practical extra that can make your hosting even smoother. Our stunning Graze Sideboard is the perfect spot to place drinks, an elegant ice bucket, extra plates, and maybe a pre-dinner snack or two.
Those little extras that make all the difference
o Lighting sets the mood. Turn your overhead lights off and instead, go for a warm, flattering glow with table or floor lamps.
o Seating arrangements might feel a bit formal, but they’re worth considering with a larger gathering. Pair chatterboxes with quieter types, and seat those with similar interests next to each other. Trust your instincts - you know your friends and what would work best.
o Encourage your guests to hop up and mingle between courses by switching seats. It’s a playful way to keep the conversation fresh and engaging.
o Set alarms or timers on your phone to remind you when dishes are ready. It’s an easy way to avoid constant trips to the kitchen and allows you to stay present with your guests.
New to dinner parties and not sure what to serve? Keep it simple.
o Start with a fuss-free, quick to prep entree, like a fresh salad, bruschetta or frittata. These can be served chilled or room temperature, easy to whip out of the fridge, plate up, garnish and let you relax and enjoy the meal with your guests.
o For main, a perfectly roasted chicken or lamb requires minimal attention once it’s in the oven. Pair it with simple sides like roasted vegetables or a crisp salad, and you’ve got a show-stopping main that’s stress-free. Tip: Par-boil your veggies earlier in the day to reduce their roasting time.
o For dessert, why not go for something crowd-pleasing and easy to prepare beforehand, like a sticky date pudding? You can make it earlier in the day, reheat it in the oven just before serving, and pair it with a warm butterscotch sauce. Or, if you’re feeling playful, try a DIY pavlova bar. Set out crisp meringue nests, bowls of whipped cream, and an assortment of toppings like fresh berries, passionfruit, and chocolate shavings. Easy to pull straight out of the fridge and place on the table or your stunning sideboard.
Ready, Set, Host!
At the end of the day, your dinner party doesn't have to be perfect. If something goes wrong, take it in your stride, keep smiling, and remember you can always order takeaway as back up. What matters most is creating a warm and inviting space where everyone feels at home. With a little planning and a lot of love, you’ll have a memorable and fun night. So, cheers to good food, great company, and some gorgeous memories.
